OpenSuse is rapidly approaching the next version of the free Linux distribution with the release of the first beta version. According to the roadmap the final version of OpenSuse 11.0 will be released June 19.

The new features offered by the beta include more recent packages and programs say the developers. Kernel 2.6.25-rc9, Gcc 4.3, AppArmor 2.3, Xen 3.2.1 RC1, Glibc 2.8 and PulseAudio 0.9.10 are just a few examples. Users can choose from a selection of desktops including KDE 3.5 and 4.0.3, and Gnome 2.22.1.

The new features also include a port of the Yast installation tool to Qt 4 and an optical rework. And: the OpenSuse installation is said to take just 24 minutes with the new release. Changes to the installation media and package management have made this possible, say the developers.

The project has published more information on the beta and the new features on this website. Images for installation media are available from the developer download page.

Developer Stefan Dirsch is responsible for maintaining the openSUSE build scripts of the fglrx driver. In a message on the openSUSE developer mailing list, he appeals for a successor to take over the maintenance.